Happy Friday everyone! We’re starting today off with a modern and elegant Florida wedding planned and coordinated by ELV member At Last Wedding + Event Design! With both the bride and groom’s families being from the Caribbean, they wanted to have an overall feel of an island-infused wedding, without being too obvious and overbearing. I think they achieved that wonderfully, and Kayleen Kelsey Photography was there to capture it all!
From the bride, Karimah:
What (or who) helped you most in your planning process and/or on your wedding day?
I was fortunate to have family and friends who helped with small details for the wedding and the honor of working with amazing vendors. The person I feel helped me the most was my amazing wedding planner, Jaclyn Fraser with At Last Wedding + Event Design. We started working together a year and half before the big day. Jaclyn made sure no detail was overlooked and if there was a problem (like a last minute venue change) she handled it without making us feel overwhelmed or stressed. I would also like to mention Bonnie, the coordinator at Hilton Orlando/Altamonte Springs, for making the transition to our new venue run so smoothly and to Tom with Doubletree Downtown Orlando, for making sure we still received everything we wanted plus more, even though things did not work out with his venue due to unforeseen circumstances.
What was the most important thing to you when deciding who to work with for your wedding?
We wanted our wedding to be a reflection of our style and personality so it was important to find vendors who would understand our vision and how to make it happen without going over our budget. We also wanted to work with people who we could have a great relationship with and had the experience to make everything come together.
What was your inspiration for your wedding details and/or design?
We both have Caribbean roots, so I wanted to incorporate some form of island elements into my wedding day. Guests were able to get a taste and enjoy the sounds of the West Indies. My goal was also to keep the overall design simple with modern touches.
What was your favorite thing about your wedding?
Oh goodness, I don’t think I can sum it up to just one. I loved everything about my wedding. It was so nice to see everything come together after planning for over a year. Walking down the aisle to unite with the man who I’ve dated for seven years and fallen in love with was such an emotional experience. We had a wonderful ceremony with personal touches and funny moments. We both agreed that our overall favorite thing was seeing all of our family and friends enjoying themselves and interacting so well.
What is your best piece of advice for other brides?
When you assemble your bridal party, make sure they understand their role and will be supportive throughout the entire planning process and on your wedding day. Also, hire a wedding planner or day of coordinator so that you don’t have to worry about putting together final details on your wedding day. They can also help you with budgeting and understanding contracts with vendors. Next, be creative! There are so many online sites and magazines with ideas for DIY brides or brides looking for something unique. Be sure to incorporate things that are personal and best reflect you as a couple. Last, enjoy your wedding day because it goes by so quickly. Take the time enjoy simple things like sitting down to eat your food and cake. Find the time to socialize with guests especially those who traveled far to be a part of your special day. Stop for a moment and soak in everything around you with your new husband.
I just love Karimah’s advice! I think my favorite part of her wedding are the beautiful flowers! There are some seriously amazing flowers that come in orange and yellow!
Vendors who made it all happen…
Lauren
Latest posts by Lauren (see all)
- Newly Engaged? 10 Steps To Start Planning Your Wedding! - January 4, 2023
- How Much Do Weddings Cost? - January 3, 2023
- What You Need To Know BEFORE You Start Planning Your Wedding - January 1, 2023
Thanks for featuring our wedding! We are thrilled! :)
Where did they find such simple and tasteful lanterns for the centerpieces?
Where did they find such beautiful lanterns for centerpieces? I am planning a wedding in October and would love to use them as centerpieces.